Parental influence is a research area that examines the impact that parents have on their children's development, behavior, and overall well-being. This area of study explores how parents shape their children's beliefs, values, and behaviors through their parenting styles, communication patterns, and level of involvement in their children's lives. Researchers in this field examine the ways in which parental influence can be both positive and negative, and how it can vary across cultures, socioeconomic statuses, and family dynamics. Overall, parental influence research seeks to better understand the role that parents play in shaping their children's development and to identify strategies for promoting positive parenting practices.